Chris Mihm traded to Memphis

OAKLAND -- Center Chris Mihm was traded to Memphis for a conditional 2013 second-round pick in what Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak called a move intended to give Mihm playing time before he enters free agency this summer. The Lakers' benefit is financial: dumping Mihm's salary ($2.5 million for the entire season) and dodging some luxury-tax payments, so saving around $2 million.

The Lakers are taking a risk in that center Andrew Bynum is not yet healed, but they also have DJ Mbenga on the roster at a cheaper wage. Power forward Josh Powell will take on slightly more duties until Bynum comes back from his knee injury, and Powell said: "I just look at it all as an opportunity."

"We have a goal to be economically feasible as an organization," Lakers coach Phil Jackson said. "We ran a little bit heavy and deep, and now we're cutting back."

Jackson said he spoke with Mihm, 29, today about Mihm's season-long goal of at least winning a championship with the Lakers while taking on a subordinate role. But the priority for Mihm has to be rebuilding his career, which he'll likely get more chance to do in Memphis the next couple of months. The Grizzlies, who were under the salary cap, are trying to be competitive now under new coach Lionel Hollins; they could also move Mihm's expiring salary, if needed, in a trade where they take on payroll.

The Lakers also get back some roster flexibility for late this season by dropping back down to 14 bodies, one shy of the maximum 15.

"The last two years have been difficult and frustrating for Chris in coming back from his ankle injury," Kupchak said. "But Chris has handled himself with true professionalism the entire time. With the depth of our roster, especially at the center position, Chris has not had the opportunity to play that he deserves. At this point in his career, and especially as someone who will be a free agent this summer, we felt it was in his best interests to go to a team that would give him a chance to play. Chris has made significant contributions to our team over the past five years. We'd like to thank him and wish him the best of luck for the remainder of his career."

User Agreement

Keep it civil and stay on topic. No profanity, vulgarity, racial
slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about
tragedies will be blocked. By posting your comment, you agree to
allow Orange County Register Communications, Inc. the right to
republish your name and comment in additional Register publications
without any notification or payment.